Democratic Republic of Congo head coach Sébastien Desabre unveiled the country’s final 26-man squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco on Monday.

As expected, Desabre’s list contained several players who helped the Leopards secure intercontinental playoffs for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after beating Nigeria’s Super Eagles in the African playoff final.

However, star forward Yoane Wissa has been left out of the squad for the tournament due to a knee injury. He has yet to make his debut for Newcastle United since his £55 million move from Brentford during the summer transfer window.

Captain Chancel Mbemba is in the squad alongside other key players Axel Tuanzebe, Noah Sadiki, Fiston Mayele, Meschak Elia, and Cédric Bakambu, as the Leopards hope to secure a medal in Morocco after coming short at the last tournament, losing to South Africa in the bronze medal match.

The Congolese will open their campaign on December 23 against Benin, followed by a highly anticipated clash with Senegal on December 27, before the final group game against Botswana on December 30.

DR Congo’s AFCON squad

Goalkeepers: Theo Fayulu, Lionel Mpasi, Mathieu Epolo

Defenders: Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Gédéon Kalulu, Arthur Masuaku, Chancel Mbemba, Axel Tuanzebe, Rocky Bushiri, Joris Kayembe, Steven Kapuadi

Midfielders: Noah Sadiki, Edo Kayembe, Samuel Moutoussamy, Charles Pickel, Ngal’ayel Mukau, Mario Stroeykens, Théo Bongonda, Michelangelo Balikwisha, Nathanaël Mbuku, Brian Cipenga

Forward: Simon Banza, Fiston Mayele, Samuel Essende, Meschak Elia, Cédric Bakambu.